John Tanui, Kenya’s principal secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, highlighted the anticipated surge in e-waste due to the increasing sale of electronic products like refrigerators, TVs, and mobile phones.
He emphasized the region’s rising awareness of the health risks linked to improper e-waste disposal.
Ally Simba, EACO’s executive secretary, noted that e-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in Africa.
Despite this, the region lacks sufficient recycling infrastructure and repair services. However, progress has been made as Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania have implemented e-waste regulations, and Uganda and Burundi have adopted national policies.
Attendees stressed the need for East African countries to align their policies with international standards to tackle the transboundary nature of e-waste.
They also called for the establishment of collection centers, recycling plants, and safe disposal mechanisms.
The exchange event was facilitated using participatory methods to encourage mutual learning and empowerment. It brought together government agencies, national and international NGOs, researchers, private sector enterprises, tree seed cooperatives and farmers.
Organized as a joint output of the “Right Tree, Right Place, Right Purpose (RTRP-Seed)”, “Quality Tree Seed for Africa (QT-Seed)” and Transforming the Eastern Province through Adaptation (TREPA)” initiatives, the event brought together key stakeholders in tree seed systems and the landscape restoration sector.
Athanase Mukuralinda, the Country Director of CIFOR-ICRAF, emphasized that tree seeds are the foundation for successful forest restoration and sustainable landscapes. However, many people do not understand the importance of using high-quality tree seeds.
“While many recognize the importance of seed quality for crops like maize or potatoes, there’s a common misconception that any tree seed is suitable for planting. However, just as with crops, poor-quality tree seeds can lead to weak, poorly growing trees. Rather, “high-quality tree seeds are crucial for effective forest restoration and the production of valuable wood, fruit and other products” Mukuralinda explained.
The projects focus on awareness, highlighting the importance of protecting seed sources to ensure seed quality for future harvests, and building capacities for communities and sector stakeholders about which trees to collect seeds from, how and when to harvest tree seeds, as well as how to store them properly to maintain their quality.
“We bring together seed producers, collectors, and tree planters to exchange knowledge and collaborate,” Mukuralinda said.
Jens-Peter Barnekow Lillesø, a senior researcher at the University of Copenhagen and a CIFOR-ICRAF fellow, stressed the need to evaluate the genetic quality of tree seeds.
“Currently, tree seeds are only checked for germination, but this does not reveal how well a tree will grow in the future,” Lillesø noted. He highlighted that most tree seeds in Rwanda are collected from farmlands without assessing their genetic quality.
Factors like the number of mother trees, their health, and whether pollinators are present are crucial for producing seeds that grow into robust trees. Different seed sources are suited to specific environments, such as dry lowlands or humid highlands, and using seeds from the wrong region can lead to poor growth and decreased survival.
Lillesø called for documenting seed sources and recognizing the seed custodians who manage them.
“These custodians play a critical role in protecting seed sources and should receive incentives for their work,” he said.
Lillesø also pointed out that the national seed center cannot manage all seed sources alone and needs to delegate responsibilities to local communities, while maintaining quality oversight.
These ongoing initiatives aim to bridge the current gaps in the tree seed sector by fostering cooperation between different stakeholders.
By improving tree seed quality and recognizing the contributions of seed custodians, among other measures, Rwanda can strengthen its forest ecosystems and support sustainable agriculture and restoration efforts.
Rwanda’s national theme, “Empowered women, stronger nation,” emphasizes that a country can only thrive when women are given equal opportunities to lead and contribute to society.
Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, and Caroline Raes, the Country Representative of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) in Rwanda, are two women who understand the power of women in climate action.
Uwamariya, having served as Rwanda’s Minister of Gender and Family Promotion before her current role, has witnessed how empowering women can lead to stronger environmental outcomes.
She believes that “Women’s knowledge and action are vital for climate resilience. Supporting their leadership is key to safeguarding Rwanda’s environmental future and strengthening the foundation of families and communities.”
Caroline Raes, who hails from Ethiopia and has worked across multiple continents, shares a similar perspective. Since moving to Rwanda two years ago to lead the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), she has been inspired by the country’s commitment to gender equality and environmental sustainability.
“When women gain skills, power, and control over their own lives, they become strong agents of change within their communities, shaping the values, aspirations, and opportunities available to the next generation,” Raes states.
She is dedicated to ensuring that GGGI continues to empower women through various projects that foster climate resilience and sustainable development.
Rwanda has made remarkable progress in promoting gender equality, particularly in leadership roles. Women hold 63.8% of seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 45.4% of cabinet positions.
This representation is not just symbolic; it has a direct impact on policy-making. Rwanda’s Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy actively integrates gender considerations into national climate initiatives.
Through gender-responsive budgeting, the government ensures that resources are allocated to programs supporting women in climate adaptation.
One of the critical areas where this commitment is evident is in land ownership. The Land Tenure Regularization program has increased women’s land ownership rights to 26% as of 2023.
This is vital because access to land empowers women farmers, who make up 77.7% of Rwanda’s agricultural workforce, to implement sustainable agricultural practices and withstand climate shocks.
However, women-headed households remain disproportionately affected by climate-related disasters such as droughts and floods. Limited access to credit and formal employment exacerbates their vulnerability.
The waste management sector provides another example of the challenges and opportunities for women in climate action. An assessment conducted by GGGI in December 2022 revealed significant gender inequalities in Rwanda’s waste sector.
Women involved in waste sorting and management face poor working conditions, lack of protective equipment, and limited decision-making power.
Cultural norms further restrict their access to training and resources, making it harder for them to adopt safer practices. To address these gaps, GGGI has implemented initiatives to improve working conditions and enhance women’s participation in the circular economy.
In 2023, GGGI partnered with the Ministry of Environment and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg to create 75 green jobs, including for women in waste management.
The organization also trained 114 women in circular economy strategies and developed a gender action plan to promote equitable opportunities in the waste sector. These efforts are part of a broader vision to nurture a new generation of female climate leaders who will drive sustainable development in Rwanda.
Looking ahead, GGGI is supporting the development of a gender equality and social inclusion index to track the integration of gender-responsive actions in Rwanda’s climate initiatives. This tool will help policymakers monitor progress and ensure that women and other marginalized groups are not left behind.
Additionally, as Rwanda prepares to revise its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, GGGI is working closely with the government to mainstream gender equality and social inclusion in climate policies.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural women, GGGI is conducting an assessment to identify their climate resilience needs. This initiative, part of a Green Climate Fund (GCF) Readiness project, will inform targeted interventions to empower rural women as environmental stewards.
By addressing their specific needs and providing them with the necessary resources, Rwanda aims to strengthen the resilience of entire communities against climate change.
Empowering women for climate action is not just about fairness, it is a strategic imperative. When women are equipped with the right tools, they drive sustainable development, foster social cohesion, and inspire future generations to take climate action seriously.
“To build a more resilient and sustainable world, it is crucial that we move away from perceiving women and girls as just vulnerable and passive individuals but rather consider them as critical agents of change,” Raes emphasizes.
During this International Women’s month, Rwanda stands as a beacon of what is possible when women are given the opportunity to lead.
By continuing to invest in women’s empowerment, particularly in climate action, the nation is laying the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable future.
And as the world faces increasing climate challenges, the leadership and resilience of women will be indispensable in shaping solutions that benefit everyone.
The Legacy Tree Project is a collaboration between the Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA) and the Center of Excellence in Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management (CoEB) at the University of Rwanda.
Legacy trees, the largest and oldest native trees dotting Rwanda’s landscapes, often stand amidst agriculture, settlements, and urban development. They include species like Umuvumu, Umusumba, Umuvugangoma, Umwungo, Umusave and Umukore.
These trees play a vital role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The project will conduct a nationwide search for these majestic trees, recording their histories and engaging local communities in their protection.
A key component of the initiative is the development of a legacy tree tour, managed by local communities, which will share the stories of these remarkable trees with the public, promoting eco-tourism and supporting local livelihoods.
“The Legacy Tree Project is a crucial step in protecting Rwanda’s remaining native trees,” stated Dr. Concorde Nsengumuremyi, Director General of the Rwanda Forestry Authority.
“By documenting these trees and recognizing their ecological and cultural value, we are ensuring that future generations will continue to benefit from their presence. This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s broader efforts to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.”
Beth Kaplin, Senior Researcher at the Center of Excellence in Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management, highlighted the importance of combining science and community engagement.
“By combining scientific research with traditional knowledge, this project will not only protect biodiversity but also strengthen the connection between people and nature. These trees are living testaments to Rwanda’s history, and through this initiative, we will ensure their stories are told and their benefits sustained,” she explained.
Beyond documentation and tourism, the project has several other important goals. It aims to improve access to native seed stocks for forest restoration, enhance research and policy advocacy for tree conservation, increase public awareness of the cultural and ecological importance of legacy trees, and engage youth in nature conservation through stewardship programs.
The legacy tree project represents a significant commitment to safeguarding Rwanda’s natural heritage, promising a greener and more resilient future through government support, scientific expertise, and active community participation.
The launch took place on February 10, 2025, simultaneously across six sub-Saharan African countries, including Rwanda. The others are Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone and Namibia.
This groundbreaking initiative, backed by £3.5 million in funding from the UK Government’s Ayrton Fund, aims to address Africa’s energy challenges through circular economy principles. Priority will be put on knowledge transfer, skills development, and policy integration to ensure lasting impact.
CEPREC will drive renewable energy innovation by repurposing electronic waste and developing circular microgrids. The initiative brings together academia, government, and industry to pioneer sustainable energy solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges.
Professor Muyiwa Oyinlola, Director of CEPREC and Professor of Innovation for Sustainable Development at De Montfort University, explained the project’s transformative vision.
“CEPREC was set up to change the way we think about waste. Turning it into opportunity, empowering communities, and driving economic transformation. This initiative will set a new benchmark for sustainable energy solutions across Africa.”
Africa faces a stark energy gap, with access rates varying widely across the continent. South Africa enjoys an 85% electricity access rate, while rural areas in Sierra Leone struggle with just 5%.
Meanwhile, economies differ significantly, from Nigeria’s $477 billion GDP to Sierra Leone’s $4 billion economy. These disparities highlight the urgent need for localized, scalable energy solutions, a challenge CEPREC is uniquely positioned to address.
“When technology is implemented without local capacity to maintain and expand it, sustainability is compromised. By integrating circular economy principles into Africa’s energy sector, we are creating a resilient and sustainable future,” said Professor Layi Alatise, Deputy Director (Engineering) of CEPREC.
In Rwanda, CEPREC is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the country’s green energy ambitions. Dr. Barry Rawn, Head of CEPREC in Rwanda, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
“The future of energy in Africa lies in local innovation and resource efficiency. By repurposing lithium-ion batteries and solar e-waste, CEPREC is proving that sustainable, low-carbon solutions can be both economically viable and socially impactful,” he said.
CEPREC is also working closely with Chatham House to ensure its research translates into actionable policy. Dr. Patrick Schroeder, Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House and CEPREC’s policy lead, emphasized the importance of international collaboration.
“The transition to a circular economy is not just an environmental imperative; it requires a comprehensive international policy framework that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices across all sectors.”
The launch marks the beginning of an ambitious long-term vision. CEPREC’s approach aligns with key UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
A week ago, these infernos ignited in various parts of Los Angeles, starting in its northern regions. The U.S. National Weather Service had issued prior warnings, alerting residents to the impending danger that was expected to peak at 10 a.m. on January 6, 2024.
At that exact time, the fire began in the Palisades, a Los Angeles suburb. Initially small, the blaze rapidly escalated, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, consuming homes, vegetation, vehicles, and other assets.
The destruction has been catastrophic, with damages valued between $52 billion and $57 billion, making it the worst wildfire in Los Angeles’ history. Zephany Nsengumuremyi, an Environmental Health Expert based in Kigali, shares views on why wildfires are becoming more devastating worldwide.
“Wildfires today are a dangerous mix of climate change, urbanization, and human activities. As temperatures rise and vegetation dries out, the smallest spark can ignite a massive blaze,” he says. The exact cause of the Los Angeles fire remains unclear, with speculations ranging from lightning strikes to electrical faults or discarded cigarette butts.
Nsengumuremyi says that while natural events like lightning can start wildfires, human activity remains a major driver. Careless actions, coupled with poorly managed ecosystems, set the stage for such disasters.
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles highlight the escalating impact of climate change. Prolonged dry spells, erratic winds, and heavy rains that spur vegetation growth (only for it to dry out later,) create ideal conditions for wildfires.
“Climate change is altering weather patterns in ways we can no longer ignore. Events like the Santa Ana winds, which reached speeds of 129 kilometers per hour during this disaster, turn fires into unstoppable infernos,” Nsengumuremyi explained.
Such winds are not unique to California. Globally, erratic wind patterns have contributed to wildfires and other natural disasters, causing significant structural damage and threatening ecosystems.
Available data indicates that wildfires can burn as much as 1,704 hectares in a single day, or 2.3 million hectares annually. These staggering figures raise concerns about the sustainability of living in high-risk areas prone to such disasters.
Urbanization has also played a significant role for example, California’s haphazard development has disrupted ecosystems and increased the vulnerability of many areas to wildfires.
“When cities expand into forests or grasslands without proper planning, they create a collision course with nature. The result is more frequent and severe wildfires,” Nsengumuremyi noted.
The toll of these disasters extends beyond physical destruction. Insurance companies face mounting losses as they compensate for damages, and even advanced technologies like surveillance cameras have proven insufficient in preventing such tragedies.
While technology is a valuable tool, it cannot replace proactive measures such as building fire-resistant infrastructure and managing land use responsibly. Experts recommend various strategies to mitigate wildfire risks, including constructing homes with fire-resistant materials and ensuring communities are not situated too close to forests
Leaders are urged to establish clear and effective emergency protocols to protect lives and property during such disasters. “Preparedness and prevention are the keys to reducing the impact of wildfires. Governments must prioritize education and policies that address both human activities and climate change,” Nsengumuremyi advised.
The recent wildfires in California rekindle memories of other devastating events, including those in Chile and Greece in 2024 and Canada and the UK in 2023. These tragedies underscore the urgent need for global action.
As these disasters grow more frequent and intense, humanity’s resilience is being tested like never before. The world is at a critical juncture and the respond to these challenges will determine the future of the planet and the safety of generations to come.
In the first phase of the the GAH project, the government has decided to tap water from the Akagera River using electric-powered machines. The captured water is stored in a 123,000 m³ reservoir before flowing through a 21 km canal. Along this canal, there are pumping stations that distribute water across 5,600 hectares.
The objective is to attract private investment into the agricultural sector with some success already evident.
“We already have seven private investors in the first phase, coming from the United States, Bulgaria, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.
They will cultivate crops such as maize, beans, soybeans, avocado, macadamia nuts, chili peppers, hazelnuts, wheat, and potatoes,” explained Ngarambe Aloysius, GAH’s CEO.
The GAH has already distributed plots to seven private investors. Land distribution began in March 2024, with investors generally given one year to prepare. Some have already begun putting up infrastructure developments.
This is a multi-faceted beneficial project because with the irrigation system, once farming begins, investors will be able to cultivate year-round without interruption. Throughout the 21 km canal, there are mini-pumping stations to distribute water across 5,600 hectares.
“As investments increase, production rises, and thus, a solution to food security is found. For maize, for example, productivity is expected to increase from 4 tons to 11 tons per hectare,” said Ngarambe.
This project will provide jobs for over 6,500 people throughout the entire production chain. While its primary goal is food security, not all of the produce will be sold on the local market. Some products will be exported after processing, thus earning foreign currency. Another significant benefit is the transfer of knowledge and expertise.
“When such investors come into the country, they introduce new technologies. The local farmer with nearby land learns something. This helps them gradually abandon traditional farming methods and adopt modern techniques,” Ngarambe emphasized.
However, the investment is costly. So far, the government has invested $118 million into the first phase of the project. “A private investor would not easily engage in this project because the money invested cannot be recouped in two, three, or even four years. It’s a long-term project, and such investments are usually made by the state,” explained Ngarambe.
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The 5,600 hectares distributed to private investors belong to the local population. The government has decided to lease this land annually.
“When a farmer provides land to the project, 75% of it goes to the state. The state then allocates it to private investors. The remaining 25% is returned to the landowner after being developed to enable them to sustain themselves. The 75% is leased out, and the farmer is paid annually,” revealed Ngarambe.
This project will make the agricultural sector more productive, market-oriented, and resilient to climate change. Out of the 5,600 hectares developed by the government, only 3,724 hectares have been reserved for private investors. The second phase, which is set to begin in two years, will also develop 10,000 hectares.
The GAH project aligns with the second phase of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), aiming to make agriculture more productive, market-oriented, and resilient to climate change.
The year was marked by several high-profile initiatives, collaborations, and projects aimed at tackling climate challenges and advancing the nation’s goals of reducing emissions, conserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable urban development.
From groundbreaking climate talks with Germany to cutting-edge waste management projects, Rwanda’s environmental journey in 2024 highlighted both local and global engagement.
This round-up brings together the key milestones, offering a comprehensive view of how the country continued its pursuit of a green, sustainable future.
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One of the most significant developments in Rwanda’s environmental sector in 2024 was the launch of the Kigali Climate Talks in May.
This quarterly series, a collaboration between Rwanda and Germany, was inaugurated by Rwanda’s then Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, and German Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann.
The talks aimed to foster dialogue on climate change, sustainability, and joint action.
The first session focused on Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, with discussions centred on the financial, technical, and capacity-building reforms needed to achieve Rwanda’s climate goals.
Dr. Mujawamariya reaffirmed Rwanda’s strong commitment to global climate targets and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, youth, and international partners in realizing the nation’s vision of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The talks will continue to provide a platform for actionable solutions, deepening the Rwanda-Germany climate partnership.
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In June, Rwanda took another significant step towards environmental sustainability with the inauguration of its first municipal waste valorization facilities at the Nduba dumpsite.
This initiative, part of the ‘Waste to Resources Project,’ aims to revolutionize the country’s approach to waste management by transforming waste into valuable resources.
Funded by Luxembourg’s Ministry of Environment and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the project includes a waste sorting facility capable of processing 100 tons of waste daily, and a bio-waste treatment plant that turns organic waste into fertilizers.
Over the past few years, Rwanda has also implemented household waste sorting programs, awareness campaigns, and reverse vending machines in Kigali to promote recycling.
The waste valorization project not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 15,000 tons annually but also creates green jobs, advancing Rwanda’s vision of a zero-waste circular economy by 2035.
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In September, Rwanda strengthened its international climate partnerships by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden.
This agreement focused on implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to collaborate on carbon markets and trade carbon credits to achieve more significant emissions reductions.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and the Swedish Energy Agency will work together on capacity building, technical analysis, and the development of work plans to advance both countries’ climate goals.
The collaboration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing role in global climate leadership and Sweden’s commitment to supporting emission reduction efforts in Africa.
Environment Minister Dr. Valentine Uwamariya emphasized that the partnership would help Rwanda meet its NDCs while fostering sustainable development.
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Rwanda’s urban sustainability efforts received a boost in October with the announcement of a $28 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The grant will support the Green City Kigali project, which aims to transform Kigali into a model of sustainable urbanization with climate-resilient infrastructure.
As Kigali grows rapidly, nearly 77% of its population lives in informal settlements vulnerable to climate risks such as flooding and landslides.
The Green City initiative seeks to upgrade these settlements, incorporating sustainable solutions to improve climate resilience.
Over the next five years, the project will position Kigali as a regional leader in climate-conscious urban planning, reducing emissions and improving living conditions for residents.
Rwanda unveils AI-powered ‘interspecies money’ for gorilla conservation
In November, Rwanda launched an innovative conservation initiative, “Interspecies Money,” aimed at supporting gorilla conservation in Volcanoes National Park.
This AI-powered platform allows tourists to make real-time, symbolic contributions to conservation efforts through digital wallets.
The funds directly support vital activities such as hiring park rangers and protecting gorilla habitats.
The platform also provides income-generating opportunities for local communities, such as wildlife photography and conservation reporting.
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Rwanda’s push for clean mobility took a significant step forward in November with the announcement of a plan to phase out petrol-powered motorcycles in Kigali by January 2025.
The policy requires all new entrants into the motorcycle taxi business to use electric motorcycles, while existing petrol-powered bikes can continue operating for the time being.
This transition is part of Rwanda’s broader environmental strategy, aimed at reducing air pollution and improving air quality in urban areas.
The country is already investing in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as battery swapping stations.
The move reflects Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions, and it is expected to reduce carbon emissions while improving air quality in Kigali.
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Rwanda continued to play a leadership role in global environmental advocacy in November 2024, when it called for a legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution at the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5).
As Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Rwanda urged nations to adopt a treaty that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastic pollution and promotes sustainable alternatives.
The country also advocated for a Multilateral Fund to help developing nations meet the treaty’s obligations, highlighting the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on vulnerable communities.
Rwanda’s call for a global treaty reflects its long-standing commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.
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At the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) held in November, Rwanda joined global leaders in calling for urgent action to combat climate change.
Minister Uwamariya stressed the severe impacts of climate change on Rwanda’s economy, noting that the country is already experiencing extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.
Rwanda’s commitment to reducing emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 was reaffirmed, and the country called for a more equitable climate finance framework to support developing nations.
Rwanda also urged high-emitting countries to accelerate emissions reductions and strengthen efforts to build a low-carbon future for all.
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In late November, Claver Ntoyinkima, a Senior Ranger Guide at Nyungwe National Park, was awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his outstanding contributions to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.
Ntoyinkima’s dedication to protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity has earned him international recognition.
His work includes anti-poaching patrols, primate habituation, and guiding scientific research, as well as founding conservation clubs for local youth.
His award was presented by Prince William at the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards in London, where he was celebrated for his tireless commitment to wildlife and community conservation.
The INC-5 meeting is scheduled to run from November 25 to December 1, 2024, at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center.
In a statement ahead of the gathering, Rwanda, as co-chair of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, reaffirmed its commitment to championing a comprehensive treaty that addresses the root causes of plastic pollution and emphasizes accountability.
“Rwanda is calling for ambitious, just, and enforceable global rules to end plastic pollution and safeguard the health of people and the planet,” reads the statement in part.
Rwanda seeks a treaty that encompasses the entire lifecycle of plastic, setting global targets to reduce plastic production to sustainable levels, promoting sustainable alternatives, and fostering vibrant circular economies. The country also stresses the need for legally binding commitments, robust monitoring mechanisms, and accountability frameworks to ensure effective implementation and meaningful progress.
Rwanda is advocating for a start-and-strengthen approach, which would allow for increasing ambition over time. The treaty must also protect and empower the most affected communities while ensuring a just transition for waste pickers and informal workers who play vital roles in managing plastic waste.
Additionally, Rwanda is proposing the establishment of a dedicated Multilateral Fund capable of supporting developing countries in meeting their treaty obligations. This would be complemented by mechanisms to attract broad-based financing to address plastic pollution comprehensively.
In the negotiations, Rwanda aims to leverage its 2008 ban on plastics to inspire global action in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
“For two decades, Rwanda has demonstrated its commitment to tackling plastic pollution through bold national policies and regional leadership. We are now taking these home-grown innovations to the world,” said Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment.
“At INC-5, we call on the global community to unite behind an ambitious and enforceable treaty that delivers a future free from plastic pollution,” she added.
The ban which prohibits the production, sale, and use of non-biodegradable plastic bags and packaging in Rwanda has had significant positive impacts, including cleaner streets, a boost in tourism, and enhanced environmental protection. Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, has earned recognition as the cleanest city in Africa as a result of these measures.
As the INC-5 negotiations mark the final stage of the treaty development process, Rwanda is urging all stakeholders to seize this historic moment to secure an agreement that safeguards humanity and nature.
Representatives of the growing group of 14 countries presented the course ahead in the effort to secure a negotiating mandate for a treaty.
According to Hon. Prof. Biman Prasad, the Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji. the idea of the Fossil Fuel Treaty is gaining momentum amongst governments, businesses, civil society and his country is carrying it forward to significant advances in 2025.
“The Treaty, as we see it, is a tool to address climate injustice and drive the shift needed to achieve a much needed transition to clean energy, while equitably managing the phase out of harmful fossil fuels globally,” he said.
He asserted that this proposal for a legally binding mechanism presents an opportunity to hold wealthier nations accountable for their role in the crisis while providing vulnerable nations like with the financial and technical support needed for the transition.
The time has come to respond with greater urgency, greater focus, greater solidarity. The Fossil Fuel Treaty is a key part of that response.”
Susana Muhamad, the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia acknowledged that the effort to develop a Fossil Fuel Treaty that will help achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and complement the UNFCCC process is moving to the next stage in 2025.
“As we agreed during the meeting of the ministers who are part of this initiative, we will pursue resolutions at the United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Environmental Assembly to push forward the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal,” she said.
“We have discussed how the treaty will address the potential implications of phasing out fossil fuels and the economic requirements of moving forward. We hope that in the next stage we will be getting the commitments of other countries keen on participating in this process,” she added.
In the same spirit, Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Public Health and Environment at the World Health Organization (WHO) said that the climate crisis is a health crisis as well affecting global health in a very serious and dramatic way.
“The combustion of fossil fuels overlaps 75% with the causes of air pollution. We will host the 2nd Conference on Air Pollution & Health, in Cartagena, Colombia in March 2025. It will be a forum where we will strengthen conversations around the Treaty, and where we will be looking at the transition and how we can help subsidize energy innovation,” she noted.
At COP29, a cross-section of Ministers and senior government officials from the endorsing nations from the Pacific, Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as observers from other countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Europe who are interested in advancing the proposal, gathered to discuss key priorities for the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal in 2025.
The ministers agreed to explore pathways to secure a negotiating mandate for a treaty through a forum such as the UN General Assembly (UNGA) or a standalone negotiating process, and to explore a resolution on fossil fuels in the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA).
In addition to the efforts toward a complementary treaty, the Ministers also agreed they will work together in Baku to get a strong outcome at COP29 on the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance and the Just Transition Working Program.
The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative is spurring international cooperation to end new development of fossil fuels, phase out existing production within the agreed climate limit of 1.5°C and develop plans to support workers, communities and countries dependent on fossil fuels to create secure and healthy livelihoods.
